Operational gaming in action research

This paper reports on our experiences of using “cognitive mapping” as the basis for constructing an “operational game” The game was designed and developed to be used in three different but associated respects: (i) as a tool to help with policy analysis and evaluation, (ii) as a device for team development, and (iii) as a unique method of raising funds for the Charity who had requested our involvement. The outcome was a computer based game based upon the “assumptive worlds” of the senior office-holder within the Charity; and thus it attempts to pay attention to the subjective and qualitative features which were critical to the way they enacted their role.